The Chief Justice, Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, has expressed concern over the increasing involvement of foreign nationals, particularly Chinese, in illegal mining activities across the country, questioning how they enter Ghana and evade justice even after arrests.

During visits to the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) and the Ghana Prisons Service, the Chief Justice highlighted the need for enhanced coordination between institutions to tackle galamsey and other cross-border crimes.

“We cannot ignore the fact that the Chinese have virtually invaded galamsey areas. In some places, they are selling supplies to operators and buying the gold. Anyone who enters this country should have a valid work permit. Unless we are talking about smuggling, these individuals are supposed to be known to our authorities,” he stated.

The Chief Justice also announced plans to roll out special courts from Monday, aimed at fast-tracking cases and alleviating congestion in the justice system.

“We are setting up a shift court system — morning and afternoon sessions — and special courts will handle cybercrime, drug trafficking, human trafficking, and cross-border offences. This will not be a single-institution effort,” he explained.

In response, Comptroller General of the GIS, Samuel Basintale Amadu, urged the Chief Justice to review penalties for illegal mining, noting that fines are currently insufficient to deter offenders.

“Galamsey is no longer just a Chinese issue; West African nationals are also heavily involved, often with the support of some Ghanaians. Existing fines are minimal and not a deterrent. We hope penalties can be made more punitive,” he said.

The Chief Justice’s tour also included discussions at the Ghana Prisons Service headquarters on improving collaboration between the Judicial Service and the Prisons Service to reduce overcrowding in the country’s correctional facilities.